Every now and then, a computer comes along that makes a mark, that sets a trend, or that simply stuns you - but not because of its internals, its processor or its software, but because of its appearance. Through the history of computing, there have been a number of computers that were actually designed to appeal not just because of raw technology alone, but also because of stunning looks. Read on for a countdown of my ten most beautiful computers.

ThinkPads would be on my most beautiful computer list. They're beautiful the way a purpose built tool is beautiful and memorable the way Darth Vader is memorable.

Absolutely.
I'm by no means an IBM fan, but the Thinkpads, especially the X-series, are simply amazing examples of beautiful ugliness - and I mean that last noun in a good way.

I'm afraid only people that have actually used/owned a Thinkpad will be able to appreciate that. The fact that you cannot usually see Thinkpads in stores on shelves plays a role in that, I guess.

A big mistake Thom, and I have no idea why you didn't consult me is to include the Macbook Air, I was very unimpressed having seen it here last week. Plus, its design is just way too fresh to be able to judge it.

iBooks, especially the later 12" models, beat the crap out of the McB Air in the looks department; as a matter of fact, Apple is not going to produce a nicer laptop in the next decade. It's not as light, but at least it has a real keyboard that says, type me!

So Thom, get the hell out of your blogging chair, get yourself a Thinkpad at eBay and repair this missed opportunity.

I agree. Though I would not call necissarily use the world ugly. The Thinkpad is simply a more industrial design. Where as the Mac is more of a Bukakki of modern deco. Both are stunning examples of art and engineering intertwined. I personally am not a big fan of where the Apple laptop line is heading. The old PowerBooks, and the Titanium were Art at its finest. The Air... more like a flat egg. I think Apple hired the same guys who push VW. Just because it screams different doesn't mean its pretty. And while the air is smooth and thin, it's rather plain in appearance. Apple needs to bring out the beast in their boxes. I want something that a man who has worked his entire life to accumulate would want to own. It's what I expect from them. IF they want to build the Lamborgini of laptops, don't design it like a V-Dub.

Yes, Thinkpads are excellent examples of the design rule that, form should follow function. E.g. look at the lid that closes very tightly and make the construction more rigid when closed. On off buttons is placed at places where you are unlikely to press them by mistake, not like the HP I use for work, that I turn off by mistake on a regular basis.